On Monday, Health Minister J P Nadda called on state governments to invest more in healthcare infrastructure. He dismissed opposition claims that funds for the PM-Ayushman Bharat Healthcare Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) had been reduced. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the debate on the demand for grants for the health and family welfare ministry, Nadda highlighted several government achievements. These include an increase in the number of medical colleges, measures to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, and initiatives for early disease screening, such as cancer and sickle cell anaemia.
Focus on Effective Planning
“We don’t believe in just making announcements. We believe in effective planning, ensuring last mile delivery, identifying bottlenecks in last mile delivery and taking steps to remove them,” said Nadda. He emphasized that the government’s approach is focused on practical solutions and effective implementation.
Addressing Opposition Claims
Nadda challenged Trinamool Congress members, who were protesting, to explain why the West Bengal government had not shared the dengue registry with the Centre. He addressed opposition claims about reduced funding for the health infrastructure mission, stating that states had only spent Rs 1,806 crore out of the Rs 4,200 crore allocated in last year’s budget.
Encouraging States to Spend Allocated Funds
“We are giving money, but it is not spent. You spend the money, we will allocate more funds if the existing funds are spent,” Nadda said. He pointed out that Rs 3,200 crore have been earmarked for PM-ABHIM this year, encouraging states to utilize the funds effectively to receive more in the future.
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